At last - the end of 2015. What better way to capture the essence of 2015 at Nail Gun Depot, than to take a look at some of the Nail Gun Network's most influential blog posts of the year. Check out some of our most popular posts from 2015!

NGD's Top Picks: Hall of "Frame"

Nail Gun Depot Is Celebrating Its 15th Anniversary: It's hard to believe Nail Gun Depot has been around for 15 years. Launched in 2000, the site has played its part in the explosion of Internet and e-commerce. From nailers to staplers, screw guns and fasteners, we've got something for everyone.

The Nail Gun Network Media Guide - We're Expanding To Video: The majority of our Nail Gun Network subscribers have come to expect weekly - and the occasional bi-weekly - blog updates announcing tool news, product demonstrations, tutorials and project tips. Now, they can expect even more, as we are pleased to announce the launch of our NGN video blog.

Maintaining Pneumatic Tools & Compressors For Cold Weather: If you live in a region susceptible to winter weather, as most North Americans do, it's crucial that your pneumatic tools and air compressors are properly maintained for the cold. Protect the integrity and performance of your tools or compressor from the freezing cold.

Why Every Contractor Needs A Laser Level: The principles of measurement in the construction industry have remained unchanged for hundreds - if not thousands - of years; but materials, assembly procedures, the interaction between various trades - not to mention time and cost pressures, have changed. The precise reason why every contractor should be using laser measuring instruments now, more than ever.

Choosing A Staple Gun For Your Project: Learn the difference between gauge and crown, what makes one type stapler different from another, and most importantly, which stapler is the best one for you. We'll explore applications, tools, fasteners and more.

Viewer's Choice: Most Popular

Everything You Need To Know About Cordless Nailers: Are you looking for a cordless nailer, stapler or screw gun? While pneumatic tools will always have a place in construction, several contractors and DIYers have come to adopt cordless fastening tools over their air-powered counterpart.

Introduction To Air Compressors: If you use pneumatic fastening tools, an air compressor will bring them to life. Air compressors provide power to your pneumatic nail guns, staple guns and other air-driven tools. The applications you need an air compressor for determine the type of compressor required.

Introducing Dewalt's DCN660 Series Cordless Finish Nailer: Dewalt fans rejoice. Introducing the widely anticipated DCN660, 20V MAX 16 gauge cordless angled finish nailer, by Dewalt. A game changer for the brand, the DCN660 series runs exclusively on lithium-ion battery power - eliminating the need for fuel cells, regular cleaning and related maintenance. Just snap the battery into place and start working.

What Type Of Air Hose Do I Need For My Compressor: You've purchased a new pneumatic tool, go to hook the tool up to your air compressor, only to find out you don't have the right air hose to connect your tool. You ask, what type of air hose do I need for my compressor? The question is simple - the answer, a bit more complex. Let's explore what type of air hose will suit your application best.

And with that, we conclude our last post of 2015. Don't worry, we're only taking a break from blogging for a few weeks - making time to celebrate the holidays with friends and family, AND launch the Nail Gun Network's all-new home. Look for an all-new, refreshed and revitalized Nail Gun Network - coming January 2016!

New from Dewalt, pneumatic nailers and staplers like never before. A full selection of air-powered nailers and staplers - designed for applications in finishing, framing, siding and more. Tools that are built to last, Dewalt stands behind each of these new tools with a seven-year manufacturer’s warranty. So, let's dig into the Nail Gun Network and see what's new in pneumatics.

We'll start with Dewalt’s latest claim to fame, Precision Point technology. What exactly is Precision Point, you ask? Precision Point technology allows for precise nail placement, thanks to a smaller, tighter nose design – compared to current Dewalt nailers. Among the recently launched Precision Point finishing nail guns, choose between a 15 gauge DA angled finish nailer (DWFP72155), 16 gauge finish nailer (DWFP71917), and 18 gauge brad nailer (DWFP12233). With Precision Point finish nailers, there's no need to compress the contact trip when firing, simply shoot. Get a better drive when working with the following applications, which include baseboards, cabinetry, furniture, trim, window and door installation.

Then, there's the collection of new Dewalt framing nail guns, which include a 15 degree coil framing nailer (DW325C), 21 degree plastic collated framing nailer (DW325PL) (replaced by Dewalt DWF83PL), and 30 degree paper tape framing nailer (DW325PT) (replaced by Dewalt DWF83PT). For hard to reach spaces, the DW325PL and DW325PT feature a compact design that allows them to fit into tight areas. The DW325C features a lightweight, aluminum body - that is still durable enough to withstands falls. Grab any of these Dewalt nailers for framing, sheathing and decking applications - and experience the Dewalt difference.

If you're looking for a stapler, Dewalt's got you covered too. New models include a 16 gauge wide crown lathing stapler (DW450S2), and an 18 gauge cap stapler (DWSL18CAP). The DW450S2 features a power control valve, which can adjust power up to 30%, for precise fastener placement. This 16 gauge construction stapler is great for construction-lathing, industrial-furniture packaging, roofing felt, housewrap, butt joints and more. For applications that require a plastic cap and staple, the Dewalt DWSL18CAP drives 5/16” crown SL style staples in tandem with plastic caps - ideal for applications installing roofing felt, housewrap and thin foam.

Last, but certainly not least, Dewalt has a new metal connector nailer (DWMC150), and coil siding & fencing nailer (DW66C-1). At only 10.5” tall, the DWMC150 can fit inside 12” on-center joists, as well as other tight areas. On the other hand, the Dewalt DWMC150 is excellent for strapping, joist hangers, post bases and caps, and anchors. The DW66C-1 includes a smooth rubber foot to help prevent damage to a work surface. Applications for the Dewalt DW66C-1 include fiber cement siding, wood siding, fencing, decking and sheathing.

All-in-all, quality seems to be the focus with these new Dewalt nailers and staplers. With several new cordless tools coming too, are you ready to give yellow a shot?

Everything you need to know about staple guns. Learn the difference between gauge and crown, what makes one type stapler different from another, and most importantly, which stapler is the best one for you.

What Type Of Staple Gun Do I Need?

Construction Stapler: When you think of a staple gun, the first thought that might come to mind is a construction stapler - in other words, not your average office stapler. Most construction staplers look very similar to a nail gun, and they typically aren't far off in operation - that is, until you load your fasteners into the magazine. Construction staplers vary in size, depending on the project you need them for. Finish staplers are great for trim work - while heavy-duty construction staplers can be used for sheathing, cabinet framing, furniture construction and more.

Upholstery Stapler: Upholstery staplers and fine wire construction staplers maintain similar characteristics - in fact, there's even a slight category overlap in some 20 gauge models - so it's important that you make sure the tool you purchase is intended for the correct application. Some upholstery staplers are intended specifically for upholstering applications, while others leave some room for versatility. To make upholstering easier, some models of upholstery stapler come with a long nose, for reaching into tight spaces.

Flooring Stapler: Flooring staplers, again, look very much like their flooring nailer counterpart. Flooring staplers are designed for the installation of hardwood and engineered wood flooring. Hardwood floor staplers come in two variations - either mallet actuated or trigger actuated. A mallet actuated flooring stapler requires the strike of a rubber mallet to drive the staple into place. Carpet staplers are more of a mixture between hammer staplers and upholstery staplers.

Packing Stapler: Carton closing staplers - also known as packaging staplers - are designed specifically for corrugated box closing applications, typically associated with packing and shipping. Carton closing staplers come in several variations, ranging from air-powered (pneumatic), to cordless battery - or even manual - operation. The size of corrugate you are intending to staple will determine the size of staple and stapler you require. For applications in manufacturing or assembly line production, packaging staplers are also available in bench-mounted and clinch stapling variations, designed for repetitive, high-volume use.

Hammer Stapler: Hammer staplers, also known as hammer tackers or slap staplers, are manually actuated tools that require the striking of a surface to operate - in the same manner as a hammer. Hammer staplers are generally used in carpet, insulation, housewrap and roofing felt installation.

Cap Stapler: Cap staplers are most commonly found in the roofing industry. These specialty staplers operate the same as a regular staple gun, but also drive a plastic cap in tandem with the staple. The cap provides greater holding power and offers added protection for the staple. Cap staplers are used for roofing felt, housewrap, foam board and other select applications.

What Crown Stapler Should I Choose?

Narrow Crown: Narrow crown staplers are generally used for finish and trim applications, such as molding, trim, cabinets, drawers, fascias and other fine-grained applications. The smaller crown allows the stapler to penetrate a surface without being overly noticeable.

Medium Crown: Medium crown staplers are preferred in subflooring, pallet building, vinyl siding, furniture assembly, sheathing and similar applications. A medium crown offers a wider range of clinch, but is not quite as rugged as a wide crown.

Wide Crown: Wide crown staplers and staples are intended for heavy-duty use - primarily in construction, for projects in truss building, housewrap, roofing, lathing and more. Look to use a wide crown stapler for many of the same applications as a medium crown, but where it doesn't matter if the staple affects the appearance of your project. Wide crown staples are bulkier, but offer greater holding capability.

What's The Difference In Wire (Gauge) Type?

Fine Wire: Fine wire staples are the thinnest variation of staple, generally ranging from 20 - 22 gauge in thickness. It's important to note, that the gauge and crown of staple are two different things. The gauge is the thickness of the staple, whereas the crown is the width.

Medium Wire: Medium wire staples are generally measured in the 18 - 19 gauge range of thickness. Medium wire will provide more holding power than a fine wire staple, but is not the best option for heavy-duty applications in construction.

Heavy Wire: Heavy wire staples are the thickest variation of staple, mostly found in 15 - 16 gauge thickness. Heavy wire will provide the greatest holding power of the three, but will also take up the most area when fastened. Heavy wire staples are good for applications that require stapling to a thick surface.

Other clamp fastening tools serve as extended family to the staple gun, such as hog ring pliers, corrugated fastening tools and flaring staplers; however, these specialized tools are typically intended for industrial use or manufacturing.

Just as you should with any other power tool, be sure that safety is your top priority when using a staple gun. Always be aware of your surroundings, how you handle the tool, and make sure you are equipped with the proper safety gear.

When is the right time to start buying your fasteners in bulk? The truth is, there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer. It really depends on the size of your operation - and your forecast for future work. For the amateur woodworker churning out a project or two every month, you probably don't need a skid ofnails, when a box or two will suffice. For a contractor with several projects on the calendar - a completely different story. Let's take a deeper look, inside The Nail Gun Network.

Buying in bulk has its advantages... and disadvantages. Take the following into account before ordering in bulk:

How often do I need to reorder fasteners?

Do I typically use the same type of fastener on multiple projects?

How can I lower my costs by ordering in volume?

After asking yourself these questions, consider your options. Most individuals who decide against buying fasteners in bulk determine that they either won't need to use a high volume of fasteners, don't want to spend extra money up front, or simply don't have the space to store a surplus while supply is being depleted. If you find that you're going through more than a box or two of fasteners per week, use the same type of fastener repeatedly (paper tape framing nails, coil nails, etc...), and want to cut your costs drastically - then buying your fasteners in bulk might be the right option for you.

Nail Gun Depot, for instance, is making it easier than ever to order your fasteners in bulk - and to kick things off, we're throwing in a free tool and free freight delivery on select SureFit skid quantity purchases - in addition to volume discounts (see offer for full details). Don't see the fastener you need? That's not a problem either, we have the capability to create special skid orders, custom to your liking. We can mix and match the fasteners you get on your skid, throw in tool deals, and even offer freight-paid delivery - so you get the nails or staples you need, delivered to your door, for one flat rate. Deals are available on full-skid and partial-skid purchases. To get started, all you have to do is contact a customer care specialist at Nail Gun Depot, by phone at 1.888.720.7892, or by email at Sales@NailGunDepot.com.

For many, the term "Made in America" is still a deciding factor when making a product purchase, whether it's a truck, tool - or even a fastener. One of the last large-scale examples of a fastener manufacturer that is "Made in America," Senco Brands, located in Cincinnati, produces more than 80 percent of their fasteners - Nails & Staples - here in Ohio.

One of the largest fastener production plants in the U.S., the Senco factory spans a whopping 500,000 square feet - and includes fastener manufacturing, tool research and development (not production), a warehouse and office space.

The trip each American made fastener makes at the Senco plant is as follows. Starting off as a spool of metal wire, each collated fastener journeys through the plant, as it goes from unrecognizable wire to the nails and staples that help build America's infrastructure.

The wire enters a machine that cuts the thread into partially finished nails, including head, shank and point. From there, the nails go onto a conveyor that sorts and organizes them - so that they are all facing the same direction as required for collation. Each fastener then goes through a finishing process - prior to being prepared for collation. For Wire Coil Nails, the fasteners are then welded to a wire and spun into coils - keep in mind this process varies depending on the type of collation for a fastener (adhesive for staples, paper-tape strip nails, etc). Once the collated nails are complete, they are packaged and stored for delivery to distributors, such as Nail Gun Depot.

Collated screws from Senco, Quik Drive and other manufacturers come in several shapes and sizes - each intended for a specific use. Every collated screw is designed to fulfill its own niche application. Find out which screw is right for you when you enter the Nail Gun Network.

Just like you would classify a nail, a screw can be broken down by its head, thread and tip. Screws can be divided down further by coating, material and color. Considering this, here's a break down of typical screw features based on the application of its intended use.

Drywall

Drywall screws need to provide enough holding power to keep drywall board firmly in its place, but don't necessarily need the same rigidity and coating as a screw that would be used for an exterior application. Most drywall screws will have a bugle head with a Phillips drive. The bugle head allows the screw to sink flesh with the drywall board surface. The thread and tip will determine the type of material the drywall board is being fastened to. For drywall to wood screws, a sharp point tip paired with coarse threads is relatively common. For drywall to steel, a drill point tip is more common.

Decking

For an exterior application, such as decking, screws need to not only provide the appropriate holding power - they also need to be durable enough to stand up to the outside elements indefinitely. Collated deck screws from Senco or Quik Drive generally feature a square drive, with either flat or capped heads. A sharp point tip and thicker threads will increase holding power and ease of drive. Because these screws will be exposed to moisture and other outside particles, most deck screws come with a manufacturer specific coating to help delay the weathering process. In coastal regions, many builders are required to use stainless steel screws for exterior applications to further prevent deterioration of the fastener.

SubFloor & Underlayment

With wood to wood applications, you will typically find that most available screws will have a sharp tip with a flat head and twin threads for additional holding strength. Either zinc, phosphate, galvanization or some form of coating will most likely also be present. The coating will help to improve the overall durability of the screw if it becomes exposed to moisture.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing screws are a little bit different than those used for wood applications. Metal to metal screws, particularly those used for metal roofing, will have a raised head with threads that run from head to tip. For extra heavy-duty metal roofing applications, you might even find the screw has a washer at the base of its head to help provide even greater holding strength.

For the average homeowner, you typically won't use anything beyond basic drywall, decking or wood screws. For contractors, depending on the applications you work with, the possibilities are endless.

It's hard to believe, but did you realize Nail Gun Depot has been around for 15 years? Launched in 2000, the site has played its part in the explosion of the Internet and e-commerce - surviving several events that have shaped the world we live in today. The NGD site we have come to know has lived through several refreshes and reconfigurations, the addition of new tools and technology, and the demise of outdated products. With annual visitors in the millions, Nail Gun Depot offers one of the largest, most comprehensive collections of fastening products available. From nailers to staplers, screw guns and fasteners, we've got something for every application. Don't take our word, see it for yourself!

Did you know Nail Gun Depot isn't just an e-commerce site, it's an information database? Choose from several resources to help pair the correct tool or fastener with your application. For example, the Fastener Finder feature on Nail Gun Depot let's you choose your tool - searching the site and matching your query with the appropriate fasteners. Need a bit more? Visit the Nail Gun Network blog and content database for how to projects, tool news, maintenance tips, and virtually everything else you need to know about power fastening tools.

But wait, there's more! Without loyal customers, Nail Gun Depot would be nothing. We want to take a second (or year) to thank all of our customers and visitors, whether you have purchased from us once - or visit the site weekly - thank you for your continued support. To remain one of the best in customer service, we are excited to announce a refreshed, mobile-friendly Nail Gun Depot is on its way. Look for the new Nail Gun Depot to launch later in 2015. Other initiatives on the way include a 15th Anniversary Giveaway - featuring Nail Gun Depot's "Bleed Orange Bundle" - as well as several other smaller giveaways and promotions throughout 2015 to thank our customers for 15 years in business. Look for a more extensive, larger Nail Gun Network too!

It's customers like you that keep Nail Gun Depot alive and growing - so thank you again from the entire staff at Nail Gun Depot.

Welcome to part-two in our Screw Gun Showdown series, where we take an in-depth look at Senco's DuraSpin screw fastening system. Designed for applications that include drywall, subflooring/sheathing, decking, cement board, underlayment, sheathing to steel, metal framing, steel decking and rigid foam insulation - among other uses - Senco DuraSpin is built to handle the most rigorous of screw fastening applications. Different in design from Quik Drive, Senco DuraSpin models come in two different styles - one with a traditional screw gun motor and attachment; the other with its entire screw system built into one handheld unit. The simplicity and versatility of a one-piece, handheld unit makes this Senco DuraSpin a top-pick for DIY applications and contractor-grade uses alike.

Available in both electric (corded) and battery (cordless) variations, Senco DuraSpin screw systems are adaptable, based on the needs of their user. While an electric model, such as the DS332-AC, will guarantee use wherever an outlet is available, cordless DuraSpin models, such as the DS312-18V, let a user go beyond the length of a cord - we just recommend keeping a spare battery on hand for large-scale projects.

Maybe you would rather have an attachment that can be used with a power screw driver motor? Senco's DuraSpin has a solution for that too, with one of their auto-feed attachments. Available as an attachment, such as the DS320, or as a full kit with screw gun motor included, such as the DS440-AC, there are a variety of options to suit different degrees of demand.

When we start talking about features, DuraSpin doesn't fall short. Look for Senco's patented corner-fit feed system - which allows you to maneuver the screw gun in hard to reach corners and narrow spaces that a typical screw system would not be able to fit. If you choose to get the DS425-AC, or an auto-feed attachment offered by Senco, look for an adjustable arm that permits a user to stand during labor intensive projects, which would otherwise require them to bend over or kneel.

And finally, the Senco DuraSpin DS325-AC collated screw system, which is only available until inventory has been depleted. The DS325-AC has been permanently discontinued, replaced by the DS425-AC.

What about screws? Nail Gun Depot offers more than 80 variations of DuraSpin screw, designed for drywall, wood and metal - for both interior and exterior applications. Available in a plethora of shapes, sizes, material - and even color - there is a DuraSpin screw that will meet the requirements of almost any application.See our full selection of Senco DuraSpin screws.

February is remodeling month at Nail Gun Depot - and what better way to celebrate remodeling month than by kicking off our FIRST-EVER Screw Gun Showdown. If you work in a renovation or remodeling trade, chances are you've used either a Quik Drive « screw system and/or a Senco DuraSpin « screw gun. Used for drywall installation, deck building, metal roofing, general construction and much more - both screw systemsare top-rated in their class - but which one is right for you? You can learn more about Simpson's Quik Drive, and Senco's DuraSpin - right here on the Nail Gun Network.

Different from Senco's DuraSpin, which we will cover in the second part of this series, Quik Drive screw systems are customizable, composed of various components that are paired to tackle a specific set of applications. A traditional Quik Drive system consists of three main components - a motor, an extension (for applications that require bending or reaching), and an attachment (designed for a specific application). The motor is relatively universal, and is more or less based on user preference - Nail Gun Depot specializes in Makita-powered screw gun motors for Quik Drive.The extensionarm is based on the type of application you are screwing into place, but is not necessarily required - for example, you might not use an extension for drywall installation, whereas you would for deck fabrication. The most unique piece to the puzzle, the attachment, determines what you will be fastening. Quik Drive attachments vary depending on the type of fastener an application requires - just think of each Quik Drive kit like pairing wine and cheese.

The Screw Gun Showdown features the following Quik Drive screw systems:

Quik Drive also offers a limited-lifetime warranty on all of its QDPRO attachments - providing added peace of mind for contractors who need to get the most out of their tools.

Something else to keep in mind, though not included in the Screw Gun Showdown,Fein recently released a cordless motor that features a built-in Quik Drive adapter - so you can plug in any Quik Drive attachment on the go, no hassle.

Last, but not least, with any eligible Quik Drive system purchase via the Screw Gun Showdown - just use the promo code "SCREWGUN" - you will receive 5% off your purchase, a FREE QDDECKCLIP-RC Decking Nose Clip, and automatic entry to win a Quik Drive PRO200 Drywall Attachment at the promotion's end.

Growing in popularity and demand, stainless steel nails, staples and screws are quickly becoming the fastener of choice for premium-quality construction projects. While these fasteners are costlier than those made of other materials - they provide the best protection against rust and other deterioration causing agents. Find out how to select the right grade of stainless steel for your project - here on the Nail Gun Network.

Before we start, let's take a brief look at stainless steel itself. Stainless steel is composed of high amounts of chromium, the element that provides corrosion resistance and additional strength to stainless. It is chromium that gives the steel its rough, adherent, corrosion resistant surface. Its self-healing properties (if oxygen is present) provide further enhancement. A popular metal for its appearance, stainless steel is now becoming an integral component in quality-construction projects - particularly in coastal regions.

There are several different grades of stainless steel fastener, however, most contractors will be most familiar with three main classes: 302, 304 and 316. The lower grade option, 302 stainless steel has a greater carbon count, reducing its corrosion resistance. A less expensive form of stainless steel, 302 is softer and more likely to strip. This type of stainless is best used in projects where corrosive agents are less prominent - such as interior projects.

The next major classification, 304 stainless steel is the most widely recognized stainless product available. Known for its balance of nickel and chromium, 304 grade stainless steel is more durable and offers better corrosion resistance than 302 grade. Less expensive than its 316 grade cousin, 304 stainless steel fasteners typically offer the best balance of corrosion resistance, versatility and cost. This grade of stainless steel typically provides an adequate amount of strength and protection in most instances.

An even stronger form of stainless steel, 316 grade stainless is the preferred grade for projects where exposure to high chloride salt is prevalent. Popular in coastal regions, 316 stainless is resistant to chloride corrosion - and is recommended for all seaside applications. The downside to 316 grade stainless, it is costlier than its lower-grade counterparts.

In addition to these three grades, look for 18-8 as a generic grade for stainless steel. The grade of 18-8 can refer to grades ranging from 302-305. Generally, you will not want to go below the rating of 18-8 in terms of stainless steel fasteners.

Make sure to select the appropriate grade of stainless steel for your project. Depending on the environment of your application, choosing the right grade of stainless steel can determine the long-term quality of your project. To find the appropriate stainless steel fasteners for your tool on Nail Gun Depot, simply search the applicable category of fasteners and choose from items labeled as stainless. Be sure to check back often, as we continue to expand our stainless steel nail, staple and screw product lines.